Togo: President Faure Gnassingbé receives Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo in Lomé
On Monday, September 9, 2024, Togo’s President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé welcomed Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), to Lomé.
The Cardinal’s visit was part of a special trip to attend the funeral of Monsignor Yves Nicodème Anani Barrigah-Bénissan, the late Metropolitan Archbishop of Lomé.
The funeral services, held on September 6 and 7, 2024, drew numerous religious and civil figures who gathered to pay their last respects to the prominent leader of the Togolese Catholic Church.
During his stay in Lomé, the Archbishop of Kinshasa and influential figure in the African Catholic community took the opportunity to meet with President Gnassingbé.
Their discussions focused on shared interests and the mutual relationship between the Church and the state.
This meeting underscores the strong ties between religious institutions and government bodies, as well as the solidarity within the African Catholic community.
The passing of Monsignor Barrigah-Bénissan is a significant loss for the Togolese Church, and the presence of high-ranking religious figures at his funeral highlights the importance of his work and spiritual commitment.
Beyond the religious ceremonies, the visit also served as a moment to strengthen relations between the Church and the political sphere.
Discussions held during the Cardinal’s visit could lead to positive outcomes, fostering closer cooperation between the two entities.
Chantal TAWELESSI
